Departing Colombo, we head south along the coastline towards the historic city of Galle. On our journey we visit a unique turtle conservation facility that has assisted in the safe hatching and release of thousands of baby turtles, and take one of the country’s few highways out of Colombo. The Dutch, Portuguese and British all occupied Sri Lanka for some periods in the country’s past. The fort in Galle is a great relic of maritime history and life during the Dutch period of Sri Lanka. Explore the fort during the day before coming back to the city at night for a dinner in the old city.
Early risers can board a morning whale watching experience as local guides take you offshore to view these amazing animals off the coast of Sri Lanka. The afternoon is yours to explore the new and old city of Galle, your guide able to provide suggestions as to how to make your most of your time in this historic city.
We follow the coastline east towards some of Sri Lanka’s best southern beaches. We remember those who lost their lives in the 2004 tsunami as we pass colonial towns along the coast. Each town is home to ancient fishing villages, Buddhist temples and shrines. We watch fishermen use various methods to catch fish from the shoreline and visit the only blowhole in Sri Lanka to observe the power of the sea. After visiting the town of Tangalle we head inland where we see the landscape change from the wind swept coast to the savannah-like plains of southern Sri Lanka before arriving at Udawalawe National Park. We take to a jeep for a safari of a national park that rivals the savannah of Africa. As the sun sets across Udawalawe dam, we search for elephants, the elusive leopard and crocodiles on our Sri Lanka Safari. After an exciting day witnessing the circle of life, our evening ends with a relaxing dinner.
